Zoo reopens exhibit where boy fell, gorilla shot

CINCINNATI (AP) – The Cincinnati Zoo’s exhibit where a gorilla was shot and killed after a 3-year-old boy got inside has reopened with a higher, reinforced barrier.

The exhibit reopened Tuesday, a day after a prosecutor said boy had “scampered off” and his mother wouldn’t be charged.

Director Thane Maynard says the previous barrier passed inspections, but the zoo decided that the upgrade will helps ensure that both visitors and animals remain safe.

The boy apparently climbed over the outer barrier May 28 before falling about 15 feet into a shallow moat. A response team shot the 17-year-old western lowland gorilla to protect the child.

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That set off a torrent of criticism. Some people vilified the zoo. Others suggested the mother should have watched the boy more closely.